Cooler weather is just around the corner. Below is a list of tasks that will help get your home it tip-top shape before the cold weather hits! These Fall Home Repair projects will help you save money this year and for years to come.

Check your furnace. Make sure your furnace is ready for the upcoming winter and in working order by having a pre-season check-up performed. Having a heating professional check your heating system will ensure optimal performance and help discover minor problems before they turn into costly major repairs.

Change your air filter. Changing your air filter is the easiest task to do. Checking your filter and replacing it when needed, provides better air quality in your home and better efficiency for your heating system.

Get a carbon monoxide detector. Carbon monoxide is a silent killer. A detector in the form of an actual alarm can be a lifesaver!

Add insulation. Insulation acts as a barrier to heat flow and is essential to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. A well-insulated and well-designed home will provide year-round comfort and can cut cooling and heating bills by up to half.

Caulk the cracks. Get a caulking gun and some caulking and go around the interior and exterior of your home and caulk any cracks you find. Do this before any rain comes, as you don’t want moisture getting inside the house and building up inside the walls.

Check exterior windows and doors for air leaks. Check exterior windows and doors for proper closure, this is a not only a safety issue, but can also save you money on heating bills in the fall and winter months. Doors can be a big energy leak and moisture can get in during a heavy rainfall if not sealed properly. Check the rubber seal around the door for damage, replace if necessary. The same procedure can be followed for your windows.

Pipes and leaks. This is something that should be maintained all year long, but it’s especially important in the winter to have good plumbing. Fix any leaky taps, and then check any pipes that you can get to for leaks. If you have any leaks, call a plumber. If any sinks or drains are slow draining, call a plumber to fix.

Check gutters and seal. Use a sturdy ladder to clean any dirt or leaves that have accumulated in the gutters around your home. Turn a garden hose on and check for leaks and bends in the gutters. If leakage occurs, purchase gutter sealant in a tube like caulk. Place sealant in a caulk gun and apply to leaking areas. Water dripping down the exterior walls of your home can cause all sorts of problems down the road, such as leaks, rotting walls and more.